Iowa Pork Producers Association opens annual search for best pork tenderloin

CLIVE — They found the best pulled pork sandwich earlier this month. Now, the Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) is searching for the best breaded pork tenderloin in all the land.

The IPPA’s 22nd annual Best Breaded Pork Tenderloin Contest, launched April 17, will run through June 3 to allow Iowans to submit their top choice for the best pork tenderloin sandwich in the state. Each Iowan can submit one nomination online at iowapork.org.

“Iowans love their tenderloin sandwiches and there is no shortage of restaurants serving up these beloved Iowa staples,” said Kelsey Sutter, marketing and programs director for IPPA. “The 2023 competition nearly broke 10,000 nominations, so we’re hoping to see great participation and support for Iowa’s restaurants again this year.”

As the national leader in pork production, it’s perhaps no surprise that Iowa is also a leader in the breaded sandwich staple featured at restaurants across the state.

To qualify for the contest, tenderloins must be hand-breaded and part of the regular menu at an Iowa establishment with year-round hours. Food trucks, concession stands, seasonal eateries and catering businesses are not eligible.

After the nomination period, the IPPA’s committee will review the top 40 restaurants — five establishments with the most nominations from each of the organization’s eight districts. Finalist contenders will then be evaluated by a panel of undercover judges on site, who will judge each tenderloin based on pork quality, taste, physical characteristics, and overall eating experience.

The top five picks will be unveiled in October, during National Pork Month. The winning restaurant will receive a $500 cash prize, a plaque to display at their business and bragging rights to one of Iowa’s most quintessential sandwiches. The runner-up will receive $250 and a plaque.

Previous Eastern Iowa winners in recent years include 2022 winner Lid’s Bar & Grill in Waukon, 2020 winner PrairieMoon on Main in Prairieburg, and 2019 winner The Pub at the Pinicon in New Hampton.

If nominating isn’t enough, earn free merchandise by conquering the IPPA’s Tenderloin Trail. Those who eat at 10 of the 14 chosen locations across the state can earn a free T-shirt. For more information, visit iowapork.org/community/contests/tenderloin-trail.

Comments: Features reporter Elijah Decious can be reached at (319) 398-8340 or elijah.decious@thegazette.com.